The Gilder Lehrman Institute names Sarah Kelly as 2024 South Carolina History Teacher of the Year
July 23, 2024
The distinguished history educator is one of 53 finalists for the 2024 National History Teacher of the Year Award, set to receive a $1,000 prize and an invaluable collection of classroom resources
Sarah Kelly, a teacher at Carolina Springs Middle School in Lexington, South Carolina, has been named the 2024 South Carolina History Teacher of the Year by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History. Established in 2004, this prestigious award recognizes exceptional elementary through high school teachers for their outstanding contributions to American history education.
Presented annually by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History, the nation’s leading nonprofit organization dedicated to K–12 American history education, this award honors one K–12 teacher from each state, the District of Columbia, Department of Defense schools, and United States Territories.
“In times like these, history teachers play a critical role in shaping students’ understanding of the past and inspiring hope for the future,” says James G. Basker, president of the Gilder Lehrman Institute. “Their unwavering dedication to educating our youth is commendable, and we take great pride in honoring the most exceptional educators across the country.”
Ms. Kelly have been teaching for twelve years and have taught grades fifth through eighth. Ms. Kelly believe that school is a place for students to grow their interests, develop critical thinking skills and grow into future ready citizens through hands-on activities, analyzing diverse texts, exploring different sources, or engaging in creative projects. Ms. Kelly also believes that middle schoolers should still have time to learn through play, and she loves using games, Play-Doh, Legos, etc. to teach.
“Ms. Kelly is an invaluable asset and exemplary leader in the CSMS community,” said Carolina Springs Middle Principal Patrice Green. “Her consistent excellence and dedication as a classroom teacher, department head, and curriculum leader have earned her the 2024 Teacher of the Year award. As a SCASCD Emerging Leader, she embodies Maya Angelou’s words, ‘When you learn, teach. When you get, give.’ Her commitment to learning, teaching, and giving back makes her an exceptional educator and role model.”
Sarah Kelly will receive a $1,000 honorarium, a core archive of American history books, and educational materials curated by the Gilder Lehrman Institute. Additionally, She will be recognized at a local ceremony and join the esteemed group of 53 finalists contending for the 2024 National History Teacher of the Year Award.
The national award winner will be announced later this fall, and they will take home a $10,000 grand prize at a special ceremony on Oct. 15, 2024, at the Harvard Club of New York City. For a complete list of the 2024 state winners, please visit this link.
About The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History
Founded in 1994 by Richard Gilder and Lewis E. Lehrman, visionaries and lifelong supporters of American history education, the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History is the leading nonprofit organization dedicated to K–12 history education while also serving the general public. The Institute’s mission is to promote the knowledge and understanding of American history through educational programs and resources.
At the Institute’s core is the Gilder Lehrman Collection, one of the great archives in American history. Drawing on the 85,000 documents in the Gilder Lehrman Collection and an extensive network of eminent historians, the Institute provides teachers, students, and the general public with access to unique primary source materials.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit public charity, the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History is supported through the generosity of individuals, corporations, and foundations. The Institute’s programs have been recognized by awards from the White House, the National Endowment for the Humanities, the Organization of American Historians, the Council of Independent Colleges, and the Daughters of the American Revolution. Learn more at gilderlehrman.org.
